Caiman Ecological Refuge is a 53,000-hectare ranch located in the heart of the southern Pantanal region of Brazil, one of the world’s most important wetlands, hosting one of the greatest concentrations of wildlife in the Americas.
One of the most accessible of the southern Pantanal lodges - 4 hours by road
Great option for families as the two lodges Baiazinha and Cordilheira have their own swimming pools
Accommodation is a notch up here and the guests rooms are spacious and have more frills
Wildlife spotting on your doorstep
Caiman Ecological Refuge combines conservation with eco-tourism and a working cattle ranch. Located in the southern region of the Pantanal, Caiman consists of a two independent lodges offering a similar level of comfort - all have swimming pools, air-conditioned rooms and private bathrooms.
Caiman Ecological Refuge has a great little restaurant with menus inspired by Pantanal recipes using only local ingredients such as freshwater fish, meats and fruits of the Cerrada. Twice a week the lodge offers guests a traditional barbecue and oreada, a special local meat dried over night which is held in high regard by the local people and very tasty indeed.
The Pantanal is home to the most spectacular array of wildlife including 300 species of birds, anteaters, armadillo, caiman and monkeys. The topography is very flat which makes it much easier to view wildlife than in the confines of the Amazon jungle. It has a diverse landscape of savanna lowlands, seasonal wetlands and rich forest areas. Resident naturalist guides accompany guests on fascinating excursions in specially adapted vehicles, on foot and by canoe.
Please note that Caiman is also available for exclusive hire.
When to visit
Opt for a private guide and vehicle for the duration of your stay for complete flexibility. This will enable you to choose how long you are on safari for and tailor your wildlife viewing to suit your wishes. An excellent option for families and keen photographers but I would recommend this to anyone
Speak to an Expert on Brazil
Our team of travel specialists are waiting to help you book your next adventure.
Inquire NowCaiman Ecological Refuge is located in the Southern Pantanal of Mato Grosso do Sul, on a 53 thousand hectare ranch, 236 km from Campo Grande, the state capital.
Wild Brazil: Amazon & Pantanal Adventure
Discover Brazil’s most wildlife-rich destinations on this epic safari-style adventure, observing playful monkeys, brightly colored macaws and even a glimpse of the elusive jaguar. Perfect for nature and animal lovers of all ages, you’ll explore some of the world's most biodiverse areas, including the Amazon Rainforest and the Pantanal and marvel out gigantic waterfalls.
Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge
Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge is one of the most comfortable lodges in the Brazilian Amazon Rainforest, nestled within a vast stretch of untouched jungle, adjacent to the Anavilhanas Archipelago on Brazil's Rio Negro. Offers wonderfully varied excursions.
Cristalino Jungle Lodge
Cristalino Jungle Lodge is a magical wildlife destination and conservation project nestled in a pristine private reserve in the Alta Floresta region in the Southern Brazilian Amazon rainforest state of Mato Grosso. Cristalino is only accessible by boat.
Araras Eco Lodge
Built in harmony with the environment without renouncing comfort, the Araras Eco Lodge is set in the preserved surroundings of the northern Pantanal - a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home of the hyacinth macaw.
Villa Amazonia
A converted historic mansion which is centered around a courtyard garden with a beautiful pool, Villa Amazonia is an ideal jumping off point on route to Brazil's Amazon, with a convenient location in the historical heart of Manaus.
Pantanal by Canadian Canoe
Take a relaxing canoe ride to discover the surrounding riverside forest and find your own silent paradise! Silently glide along the river banks for your best chance to see wildlife along the way. Even do some Piranha fishing!
Onçafari Project at Caiman Ecological Refuge
Projeto Onçafari is a non-profit conservation initiative that aims to promote ecotourism in the Pantanal by habituating* jaguars so that people can witness the fascinating behaviour of these beautiful animals, from a safari vehicle.
